Manchester City have been busy over the summer transfer window, signing a host of exciting players including Rayan Ait-Nouri.
Manchester City completed the signing of Rayan Ait-Nouri from Wolverhampton Wanderers in June, paying Wolves an initial £31million for his services.
Ait-Nouri has made three appearances for City so far, starting all but one of his new side’s games at the Club World Cup.
Now, BBC Radio West Midlands’ Wolves correspondent Mike Taylor has told City fans what they can expect from Ait-Nouri next season.
Rayan Ait-Nouri backed to be a success for Manchester City
Taylor, speaking to City’s media team, backed Ait-Nouri to potentially be a “very good” signing for City, as he may be able to express himself more in a stronger team.
When asked what kind of player City are getting, he said: “The best of Ait-Nouri is his confidence carrying the ball at close quarters, and his keen running whenever afforded room.
“When you spotted him hovering as Wolves gained possession, waiting for the gap to appear, you kept watching.
“Like a greyhound as the traps open, he seemed to need only one stride to accelerate to full pace, running in direct lines towards the corner-flag or the near post.”
Taylor continued: “His pace is obvious at all times, but crucially it is his pace with the ball that marks him out.
“The point of difference between an in-form Ait-Nouri and some of his type in the Premier League is where he runs to – directly, wherever possible.
“Ait-Nouri at his best was always more likely to try to beat a defender than avoid him, or merely pass the ball backwards.”
Rayan Ait-Nouri’s strongest position
Taylor believes that Ait-Nouri’s strongest position appears to be at wing-back, but he should also do well as a full-back in a possession-dominant team.
He also spoke about a “useful variation” to Ait-Nouri’s positioning, namely playing on the right side of midfield.
“Wing-back has appeared the most natural fit for his talents, but full-back in a team that regularly enjoys possession most of the time should suit him just fine,” said Taylor.
“He also made a couple of interesting showings as a right-sided attacker, a useful variation!”
Taylor concluded: “It’s great to be a winner, and great to be an entertainer, and with the right platform Ait-Nouri may prove himself to be both.”
